Frequently Asked Questions about Cape Cod Commission Finances

How is the Cape Cod Commission funded?

The Commission derives its revenue from three sources: a property assessment, grants, and fees. Revenue is deposited into the Cape Cod Environmental Protection Fund, which may be used to fund only the approved budget of the Cape Cod Commission.

Where is this authorized?

The Cape Cod Commission Act authorizes taxes to be apportioned and assessed to towns in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws. The Act authorizes the Commission to levy fees for the recovery of the cost of its regulatory activities, and to accept grants from public or private persons or entities.

Could a town use this money for other purposes if it was not part of the Cape Cod Commission?

No. Towns are authorized to collect these taxes solely for the operation of the Commission. These assessments are entirely independent of a town's levy limit or ability to collect taxes for its own purposes.

Who reviews the Commission's budget?

As a department of Barnstable County regional government, the Cape Cod Commission's proposed budget is reviewed and approved by the three elected Barnstable County Commissioners (the executive branch of county government) and the 15 elected town representatives that comprise the Barnstable County Assembly of Delegates (the legislative branch).